Monday March 1, 2010 – Maya Jasmin
So where in the world is there still analog TV? Well, lots of places. Only in select Western European countries and the U.S. has there been analog shut offs, and there are definite lessons that can be learned from those transitions to aid other countries in the planning of a Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) system or analog shutoff.
Although these shut offs have been relatively successful transitions, countries yet to make the leap must be careful when trying to emulate the processes used by the “shut off nations.” Each country must consider their own frameworks, which can be based on political will, government involvement, and the number of consumers using terrestrial TV services. Because of these added considerations proper planning is essential when deciding to make the transition to a DTT system as the slightest mistake can result in dire repercussions for a nation’s TV infrastructure and spectrum management.
There are several essential factors to consider when deciding if a digital transition is needed and what kind of timeline a nation should develop when planning a transition.
- Does it make sense to build a DTT System? While for many countries the answer to this question is yes, in countries where resources are limited and basic human needs are not being met a DTT transition may not be the best allocation of available resources. For those countries that decide transitioning is not a priority DTC believes that analog infrastructure will be supported well into the near to mid-term future.
- How do you begin building a plan and timetable? While no two countries’ plan and timetable will look exactly the same there are fundamental issues, including but not limited to technical, political, and fiscal realities, which need to be considered in every instance.
- Should integrating a DTT System with other digital platforms, such as mobile TV or radio, be considered? If yes, how will that affect standards and specifications selection? How will an integrated infrastructure be built?When addressing this issue, cost savings are the obvious lure, however planning authorities should be careful not to abandon practicality and efficiency in search of a less expensive plan.
- How do you select transmissions standards and technical specifications? Choosing transmissions standards and technical specifications can be complicated and many factors should be carefully considered when doing so. One important thing to remember however is that the selection of transmission standards and technical specifications are fundamentally intertwined.
Addressing these essential factors will help in deciding if it is time for an AtD transition and aid in the outlining of a plan for a DTT system. However, this only begins to scratch the surface in addressing all that is involved in planning a successful DTT system or AtD transition. DTC has written a free Essential Guide to Planning a Digital Terrestrial TV Systems and Analog Shut Off that answers many of the questions we’ve posed and you can download it here. Or contact Myra Moore at for further expert consultation.
